A week ago I took a short and sweet trip to the east coast to see my baby sister receive her High School Diploma.
I barely saw that social butterfly, but the trip was a must for me– her and my dad depart for Africa today!
During my visit I was in shock to find “The Health Shoppe” of Morristown, New Jersey, closing after 43 years. Although I gave my condolences with the owner, there was no way to share (without sounding like a crazy person) just how much of an impact this little store had on my life.
Ironically positioned next to a “Cluck-U Chicken” buffalo wing shop, and a “Burger King” I grew up going to after attending acting class, this little health store was fascinating to me, with all of it’s unique foods and supplements.
It was also the first place I went to taste my first unpasteurized, freshly pressed vegetable juice (which had too much ginger, and I had to tell my mom it was delicious so that she would let me invest in a juicer). A few years later, it became the store where I filmed these funny videos with The Real Parents, and then my final lecture on the east coast prior to moving to Dallas (which had an awesome turnout).
In an area surrounded by a variety of restaurants, bars, diners, and dives, this little store offered hope for fresh beginnings of glorious health– a different path. It is truly a shame that “The Health Shoppe” is leaving, and even more of a shame that something else like it is not taking it’s place in the bustling city of Morristown.
A big thank you to the little Health Shoppe that educated and inspired me to look at healthy living in a new direction. Unfortunately the “BK” and surrounding offenders seem to go about life unscathed. Lovely.
But as one door closes, another door opens. As surprised as I was to see the health store close, I think I was even more bewildered to find a new organic breakfast/lunch spot within walking distance of the High School I attended in Bernardsville.
In fact, I had to laugh, at the location. One of my best buddies in the 7th grade had owned a bakery there for years. I can remember spending summers excited to visit the shop and indulge in the rich, sugary treats after my mayo sandwich with turkey (yes, I wrote that correctly).
Trying to make their own way, and still working out the kinks in their new operation, the new healthy cafe, otherwise called Breezy Organic, was quite charming and tasty. If you are in the area, check them out!
In the mood for some guacamole, but only finding it on a grain wrap sandwich, Breezy was happy to accommodate. Quickly modifying their menu, they presented me with adorable collard wraps (I was beyond happy with their size– expecting something smaller). Stuffed with raw cabbage, julienned carrots, sunflower sprouts, and guacamole, I could not help but to order an extra order for my flight home (plus red onion).
I liked the simplicity, but when I got home, I added freshly chopped garlic and a few spices to bring in some more heat.
My mom ordered their plump veggie burger, and loved the flavor. She is also the owner of the other items in the shot.
Equipped with a raw juice bar, freshly made almond milk, and young Thai coconuts, my fingers are crossed that the beautiful town of B-ville will see past their bagels and cream cheese, deli sandwiches, and cheese platters, and get better acquainted with some wholesome eats.
And if you are not ready for a veggie burger or a green veggie wrap, you will also find that Breezy is stocked with sweet treats, including: rich looking brownies, muffins, frozen yogurts, and smoothies, etc.
Now if only I had a few moments… I’d be making some collard green wraps.
Brookie, I love you.
Dad, Love you!
Have a safe and wonderful trip!
